Cone beam computed tomography findings in the temporomandibular joints of chronic qat chewers: Radiographic bone density and trabecular microstructural analyses

Abstract

This cross-sectional comparative study investigated the effects of qat chewing habit on the radiographic bone density (RBD) and trabecular microstructure of temporomandibular joint condyles using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). In total, 85 systemically healthy Yemeni males were included and divided into qat chewers (QCs; n=41); and non-qat chewers (NQCs; n=44). The participants responded to a structured questionnaire and underwent standardized clinical examination and CBCT scanning of the temporomandibular joint. Measurements of RBD and trabecular microstructure (trabecular thickness, trabecular separation, bone volume fraction, and fractal dimension) were performed. Statistical significance was established at P ≤ .05. No statistically significant differences were found between QCs and NQCs in RBD or trabecular microstructure. The mean standard deviations and maximum values of trabecular separation on the nonchewing side for QCs were significantly lower compared to the corresponding values for NQCs (0.60 and 2.68 for QCs vs 0.72 and 3.05 for NQCs; P=.025 and .05, respectively). A comparison between chewing and nonchewing sides in QCs revealed no significant differences. Qat chewing habit induces insignificant changes in condylar RBD and trabecular microstructure as detected by CBCT. Further studies using advanced radiographic techniques are warranted.